"Dr. Maurice L. Blum, 701 W. Diamond Ave., who died Thursday at the Hazleton State General Hospital, was buried Sunday from the Fierro Funeral Home. Rabbi Abraham Ruderman, spiritual leader of the Temple Beth Israel, conducted services at the temple. Interment was in the Beth Israel Cemetery.

Military honors were accorded by members of Hazleton American Legion Post 76. Flagbearers were Patrick McDwyer and V.J. McGeehan. Max Pancheri Jr. was the bugler.

Active pallbearers, all members of the Hazleton Lions, were past presidents Peter Forliano, Angelo Sist, Carl Ambrosia, and Edward Scarp, President David Schwartz; and Louis J. Fierro, third vice president."

As I transcribed the funeral notice a thought crossed my mind...Boyle is a family name for my tree. I wonder if this Dennis that served as a member of the firing squad for Maurice's funeral was related to me. Boyle is certainly a common name, but I'm 1/2 Irish...they're pretty much all common names.

Then there was the mention in the firing squad of Donald Hill. Again, another common name, but Maurice's wife was a Hill. Her brother's name was Harry according to Hazel's obituary (that'll be next week), but thought that perhaps this was a nephew or a cousin. As far as nephews go that would have the Hill surname...none. As far as I can tell, Hazel's brother had 2 daughters, Doris and Marian.

Either way the thought of a Hill family member taking part in remembering Maurice makes me smile. The thought of a distant cousin of my own taking part is beautiful indeed. Even if I can't verify who they are right now the thought makes my heart light.